KUALA LUMPUR: All bullying cases in educational institutions under the Education Ministry will be investigated thoroughly using standard operating procedures, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
She told the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Nov 14) that over 90% of bullying and sexual harassment cases in all such institutions had been resolved within 15 days, and noted that advocacy for access to make such reports had also improved.
"This is the assurance we can give: each complaint must be investigated based on urgency of relaying information, reporting and taking action based on SOP," she said in reply to Mohamed Taufiq Johari (PH-Sungai Petani) during Minister's Question Time.
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Mohamed Taufiq had asked the ministry to state the action taken to address the long-term effects of bullying among students as well as the impact on students' mental health.
On mental health interventions, Fadhlina said the ministry always prioritised the mental well-being and safety of students.
"For cases that occurred in schools, both victims and perpetrators will be referred to the guidance and counselling teachers.
"We have such teachers within the ministry to handle such issues.
"These teachers will provide appropriate intervention (keeping in mind) protection of the welfare and safety of students... while the investigation is ongoing.
"All bullying cases need to be reported to the principal for further action," she added.
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She also said the ministry has guidelines on managing bullying at all institutions under its purview.
"These guidelines serve as a reference for all stakeholders to enhance their understanding of bullying, its implications, and their respective roles in managing misconduct."
She also outlined the SOP followed by school authorities whenever there are complaints of bullying.
Among them are contacting the parents or guardians of the students involved (perpetrator and victim); and accompanying students to the nearby government clinic or one-stop crisis centre for a physical examination or to assess any emotional trauma.
"For bullying unrelated to any criminal offences under the law, the school will handle the case according to the categories of disciplinary offences... at school level.
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"For cases reported to the police, the school will assist the police by providing relevant documents to complete the investigation process.
"Police reports are usually made by the doctor treating the victim, or by the victim's family. Subsequent action will also depend on the police investigation and the deputy public prosecutor's (decision)," she added.
She pointed out that a coordination committee comprising ministry and police representatives also discussed misconduct and bullying issues in schools.
"All secondary and primary schools have a school liaison officer from the police force," she said.
Kalam Salan (PN-Sabak Bernam) had asked about schools' SOP for handling bullying complaints, and whether or not such cases are reported to the police for legal action to be taken.
